Smart electronic label employing electronic ink

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides for smart and dumb implementations of a stand-alone, remotely updateable, remotely alterable, flexible electronic label. The electronic label provides for displaying information in connection with a mammal, non-mammal, an item or location. The label includes a display assembly having electronic ink disposed on a support, one or more antennas for sending or receiving signals corresponding to one of instructions, programs, data or selected indicia to be displayed by said display assembly, a storage element in circuit with the antenna for storing the instructions, programs, data and indicia, and one or more processors for intelligently determining the indicia to be displayed by the display assembly, for controlling and coordinating operation of the label, and for generating output signals for instructing the display assembly to display the indicia.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/393,553, filed Sep. 10, 1999, and claims priority toprovisional patent application Ser. No. 60/218,812 filed Jul. 18, 2000and Ser. No. 60/099,888 filed on Sep. 11, 1998, the contents of whichare hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to electronic display devices, and ismore particularly directed to remotely updateable electronic labeldevices and systems for displaying selected data.

Conventional printing labels and methodology for affixing them toparticular items are well known in the art. The information permanentlyapplied on the printing labels reflects information known about theparticular items at the time the labels were created. It is generallydifficult to alter the indicia on the printing labels once created forthe particular items. In general, three conventional techniques havebeen developed to address this problem. According to a first technique,a completely new label is created to replace the previously printedlabel. The new label is typically reaffixed to the particular item,either at a new location or over the existing label. According to asecond technique, a new but smaller label can be employed to patch overa portion of the originally printed label in order to alter particularindicia related to the item. In some applications, properly placing andaligning the new, smaller label, so that it can subsequently be read bya machine or person, is a difficult, labor intensive, and error proneprocess. In the situation where all or a portion of a label is changedwith the new label, great care is taken to ensure that an unacceptablebuildup of labeling material does not occur, and that the labelalignment is sufficient to illustrate the altered item indicia, as wellas to ensure that it does not affect human or machine readableprocesses.

A third common technique involves the situation where the information orimage is directly imprinted or manually written or drawn onto an item.In this circumstance, the old image is generally removed or erased, andthen a new image is reprinted or drawn on the item. Examples of suchinformation deleting include price changes related to the item, changesin menu prices, the return dates on library books, return dates forvideo rentals, and the like. Great care is typically employed to ensurethat the integrity of the information visible on the new label or thedesignated area is not adversely impacted through some interaction orinterference with the information previously imprinted or present on thelabel or disposed in the designated area. Otherwise, the integrity ofthe new item information may be affected. Moreover, removing or erasingthe original information imprinted, written, or drawn on the label ordesignated area of the item may result in damage to the item.

Conventional items to be labeled generally reserve a designated locationfor displaying relevant item information. Generally, an individualapplies the labels to the item at this designated location, or writes,draws or stamps information in the designated area. Despite the presenceof the designated label location, it is typical to find variabilitybetween items in terms of the label location, orientation and ability toconvey the proper information to a consumer or to a piece of equipmentintended to read automatically the information off the item.

There accordingly exists a need in the art for a stand-alone, remotelyupdateable and/or alterable electronic label which can be formed invarious sizes and shapes for displaying information related to an itemin human or machine readable form. There further exists a need in theart to update or alter the information related to the item in a mannerwhich allows the label to be reused a significant number of times.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a smart, resilient,flexible electronic imaging surface, display, label, tag or strip thatis self contained, does not require an onboard power source, (i.e.“battery-free”), and employs radio wave transmissions to remotely updateand permanently or temporarily alter the information displayed in humanand/or machine readable form. The information displayed by the label canbe a subset of the information locally stored on the label, informationreceived partly or solely from an external source, or a combinationthereof. Moreover, the label can be a ‘dumb’ label by displaying solelythe information received from the external source, or can be a ‘smart’label capable of determining in whole or in part the information to bedisplayed.

It is a further object to employ the electronic label of the presentinvention in a number of different applications to create ‘display,label, tag, or strip systems’ that include combinations and variationsof microprocessors, computer(s), software, electromagnetic transmittersand receivers, and a variety of antennas, etc., that can communicatewith and update the remotely updateable/alterable electronic label, tagor strip in any manner.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an electroniclabel for updating information on an imaging surface or a displayportion of the label, tag or strip. The display portion of theelectronic label comprises a pixel or segment addressable imagingmaterial disposed to create and display text, graphics, barcodes andother information in a human or machine readable form. The label can beformed as a wristband, pendant, badge, pin, etc., and worn by a personin a place of entertainment or amusement, or in any other environment orvenue where it is beneficial to periodically update the informationdisplayed on the label to reflect both the status of services or eventsof interest.

The present invention provides for smart and dumb implementations of astand-alone, remotely updateable, remotely alterable, resilient andflexible electronic display, label, tag or strip device of various sizesand shapes. The size and thickness of the electronic device may becomparable to the size and thickness of conventional printing labels, inorder to attach the electronic device as a label to an object anddisplay information related to an object without adding significant bulkor weight to an object. The number of layers forming the device can varydepending upon the particular components employed in the device, andupon the requirements or exigencies of the intended application. Thedisplay device of the present invention provides a flexible electronicdisplay that is self contained, does not require an onboard powersource, and employs radio waves transmissions to remotely update andpermanently alter information displayed in human and/or machine readableform by addressing specific pixels or segments within a display portion.The electronic display device of the present invention can be providedin various embodiments, each of which can be employed as a system fordisplaying information related to a particular item. Each electronicdisplay system can include combinations and variations of particularelectronic components, including microprocessors, computer software,transmitters, receivers, and a variety of antennas, etc., that cancommunicate with and remotely update the electronic display at variousdistances. According to one practice, the display device can be updatedby providing for an electronic hard wire connection to a informationaltering device, or by employing electromagnetic waves to alter thedisplay from various distances.

The present invention provides for smart and dumb implementations of astand-alone, remotely updateable, remotely alterable, flexibleelectronic label. The electronic label provides for displayinginformation in connection with a mammal, non-mammal, an item orlocation. The label includes a display assembly having a bi-stable,non-volatile imaging material, such as electronic ink, disposed on asupport, one or more antennas for sending or receiving signalscorresponding to one of instructions, programs, data or selected indiciato be displayed by said display assembly, a storage element in circuitwith the antenna for storing the instructions, programs, data andindicia, and one or more processors for intelligently determining theindicia to be displayed by the display assembly, for controlling andcoordinating operation of the label, and for generating output signalsfor instructing the display assembly to display the indicia.

The present invention also provides for a stacked, layered electroniclabel suitable for displaying information. The label includes one ormore display layers having a pixel addressable, bi-stable, andnon-volatile electronic ink disposed on a support, one or moreactivation grid layers for activating said electronic ink or otherdisplay layers, one or more antenna layers for sending or receivingsignals corresponding to programs, instructions, data or indicia to bedisplayed by the display assembly, and a processor layer including oneor more processors and a storage element. The storage element storesindicia, data, programs or instructions. The processor, which is incircuit with the display layer, the activation layer, and the antennalayer, determines intelligently the indicia to be displayed by thedisplay layer. The processor also controls and coordinates operation ofthe label, and generates output signals for instructing the displaylayer to display the indicia by addressing and controlling the state ofspecific pixels in the display layer. The display layer, said antennalayer, said activation grid layer, and said processor layer are allstacked together to form the stacked electronic label.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of theinvention will be apparent from the following description and apparentfrom the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters referto the same parts throughout the different views. The drawingsillustrate principles of the invention and, although not to scale, showrelative dimensions.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the electronic label according to theteachings of the present invention employed in connection with an item.

FIG. 2 is a schematic depiction of the electronic label (with selectedelectronic components illustrated) and activator module that form theelectronic label system according to the teachings of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 is a more detailed schematic depiction of the activator module ofFIG. 2 with selected electrical components illustrated.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view illustrating the stacked and assembled layersof one embodiment of the electronic label of FIG. 1 according to theteachings of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a general schematic depiction of certain selected electricalcomponents employed by the electronic label of FIG. 1 according to theteachings of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a schematic depiction of the electronic label system of FIG. 2connected to one or more remote devices or systems according to theteachings of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a roll of film employing the electroniclabel in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate one application of the electronic label ofthe present invention used in a retail store environment in connectionwith the sale of consumer products. In this illustration canned goodsare shown.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the electronic label of the presentinvention used in connection with a menu.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an array of electronic labels used inconnection with a keyboard.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the electronic label of the presentinvention used in connection with a recording media item.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a broad illustration of an electronic label employed inconnection with an item, person, animal or location in accordance withthe teachings of the present invention. The illustrated electronic label16 is specifically employed in connection with an item 12. Theelectronic label 16 displays information, generally as human or machinereadable indicia 14, in order to display information related to the item12 or any other predefined or selected information. The electronic label16 can be temporarily or permanently affixed, attached, secured orcoupled to the item 12 according to known methods and techniques.According to one practice, a suitable conventional mechanical fasteningsystem, such as fasteners, loop and hook-type arrangements, stitches,adhesives, and molding, as well as other known fixation techniques, canbe employed to permanently or temporarily attach the electronic label 16to the item 12. The label can also be integrally formed with the item,or can be used as a stand alone label. As used herein, the term label isintended to include a label, strip, tag or general display device thatis sufficiently sized and configured for attachment to an animal,person, item, or location for displaying indicia. For purposes ofclarity, the label 16 is generally shown and described as being attachedto an item, although those of ordinary skill will readily recognize thatthe label can also be attached to an animal, person or location.

The illustrated electronic label 16 displays information that is eitherwholly or partly prestored or preloaded, or uploaded, in the label, orcreated by a processor in the label, or displays information thatcorresponds or is consistent with or based upon signals received from anexternal source, such as an activator module and/or a GPS system. Thoseof ordinary skill will readily recognize that the information displayedby the electronic label 16 can be any general information correspondingto the item, location, mammal or non-mammal, and which is suitable andappropriate for a particular intended use.

FIG. 2 is a schematic depiction of the electronic label 16 used inconnection with an activator module 18. The activator module, when usedin connection with the electronic label 16, can function as a mastercontroller, by sending signals to the electronic label so as to actuatethe label to display particular indicia, or by receiving selectedsignals from the electronic label for subsequent use. The signalsreceived by the activator module 18 can be representative of a varietyof information, including the status of the indicia displayed by theelectronic label 16, as well as any other information suitable to beemployed by the activator, and which would be obvious to those ofordinary skill in the art. The signals sent by the activator module areused by the electronic label to address specific pixels or segments ofthe electronic label to form the human or machine readable indicia 14.The illustrated activator module 18 can be a pocket-sized, handheld,portable, or fixed location signal generating device, which can employor be formed as a suitable antenna. The illustrated activator module canbe coupled to any appropriate processing or control apparatus, such as astand-alone computer 70, a local area network (LAN) 72, wide areanetwork (WAN) 74, internet, intelligent appliance, or any other suitablesignal generating, processing or control apparatus known to those ofordinary skill in the art. This arrangement is illustrated in FIG. 6.The activator module 18 can be coupled to the processing or controlapparatus through any suitable communication link, such as a standardelectrical cable, optical fiber, wireless network or any suitable director indirect connection or link. The applications and embodimentsdescribed below generally employ radio signals. The processing andsignal control capabilities of the activator module 18 can be housedcompletely within the activator module, or can be distributed among thesystem or devices to which it is connected.

With reference again to FIG. 2, the activator module 18 generates anoutput signal, designated as radio wave signal 20, that is received bythe electronic label 16. Those of ordinary skill will readily recognizethat the activator module 18 can generate any suitable output signal 20at any suitable selected frequency. Consequently, the activator module18 can operate as a number of different types of signal radiatorsdepending upon the label's intended use. The module can operate oversequential frequencies or can use simultaneously a number or combinationof different frequencies. FIG. 2 illustrates at least some of theselected mechanical and electrical components that comprise theelectronic label 16 of the present invention. The radio wave signal 20generated by the activator module 18 is received by an antenna element22. The antenna element 22, in response to the signal 20, generates anoutput antenna 26 that is received by a processor 24. The activatormodule 18 preferably generates an output signal 20 at a frequency thatcorresponds to the antenna element 22. Those of ordinary skill willreadily recognize that the activator module 18 can generate an outputsignal at any selected frequency, and hence can provide any suitableantenna element 22 configured for receiving the activator output signal.The illustrated processor 24 processes the antenna output signal 26 toperform one of a selected number of functions. For example, theprocessor 24 can communicate with a storage element 28 in order to storenew information or data or to access or retrieve selected information ordata stored therein, such as computer programs or instructions or storedpixel addresses, which can be employed to determine the particularindicia displayed by the imaging surface or display. The storage element28 can also store a unique label or tag identification number, productcode, color, name, size, description, and cost, sale price, percentreduction/markdown, unit of sale, lot number, expiration date,manufacturing date, manufacturer, identifier of manufacturing plant,country of origin, countries through which item has passed, tax rate,taxes paid, last price change, stocking number reorder number, retailstore name and location, destination, intended use, cookinginstructions, useful life based on storage temperature, recipes, lasttime cleaned or used, when item was initially opened, encryptingsoftware, and security and anti-counterfeit software, as well as otherrelated data consistent with the intended use of the label. Those ofordinary skill be readily able to determine in light of the teachingsherein the information to be stored in the label 16 or transmitted tothe label 16.

According to one practice, the processor 24 and the storage element 28operate in conjunction with each other to retrieve stored datacorresponding to indicia to be displayed by the display assembly 30.According to another practice, the processor 24 can initiate or executeone or more preprogrammed sequences stored locally within the storageelement 28 for determining which indicia is displayed by the imagingsurface or display element 30. Alternatively, the processor 24 canprocess instructions received by the activator module 18. Hence, theprocessor can be employed to control and coordinate the display, whileconcomitantly processing or passing along instructions received from theactivator module or stored on the label. The processor 24 can alsogenerate output signals to activate the display to show selected indiciabased on executed instructions employing information stored locally inthe label (e.g., in the storage element 28), information generatedlocally in the label, information received from the activation module orfrom some other source (e.g., a GPS system), or information generatedfrom a combination thereof. The processor 24 can further be configuredto employ a combination of locally stored or generated instructions andexternally received instructions to determine a subset of the locallystored information transmitted by the external source (e.g., activatormodule 18) that should be displayed. This information can then be usedto determine the appropriate set of information processed by theprocessor 24. The processor 24 can generate an output signal thatactivates the display assembly 30 to display selected human and/ormachine readable indicia in any format. The indicia displayed by thedisplay assembly 30 can be information (e.g., textual or graphicinformation) associated or related to a mammal, non-mammal, item, orgeographic location, or any other suitable indicia consistent andcompatible with the label's intended use. The information can bedisplayed by the display assembly 30 in any appropriate font color, fonttype, font size or format, including any appropriate pixel density, anddisplay duration, such as flashing, non-flashing, static, motion, 3D,and the like. Moreover, the display can be adjusted or altered todisplay selected amounts of information in any suitable format. Theprocessor 24 can also employ encrypting and security software orprograms stored in the storage element 28 to authenticate commandsreceived or executed by the label. This function affords a selectedlevel of security and anti-counterfeit protection by ensuring that onlyauthorized information is displayed by the label. The storage element 28can be any suitable volatile or non-volatile memory element, orcombinations thereof, such as RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or any othersuitable memory or storage element known to those of ordinary skill.Those of ordinary skill will also recognize that the processinginstructions can be hardwired in the label 16 using discrete componentsand that all or portions of the processor functions can be constructedusing discrete components.

The illustrated processor 24 can operate to activate the displayassembly 30 to display a selected series of indicia. The processor 24can also be configured to maintain the indicia displayed by the displayassembly for a selected, finite period of time according to preselectedprograms stored in the label. Alternatively, the processor 24 can alterin a periodic, nonperiodic, intermittent or other selected manner theindicia displayed by the display assembly.

The illustrated electronic label 16 can further be adapted to transmit asignal 20A from the label 16 to the activator module 18. The signal 20Atransmitted by the electronic label 16 can include information or dataassociated with the status of the indicia displayed by the displayassembly 30, the status or operating condition of the electronic label,or any other information suitable for use by the activator module 18 andthe system to which the activator module 18 is connected.

The illustrated electronic label 16 can have a size and a flexibilitysuitable for its intended use. In particular, the label 16 can be sizedand dimensioned to form a label for use on a container, article ofclothing, luggage, keyboard, gameboard, menu, and other articles, andcan also be constructed as a wristband, pennant, or any other suitableelement used in connection with an item, person or location fordisplaying selected information. The intended use and application of theelectronic label dictate the size and shape of the label. Those ofordinary skill will thus recognize that the illustrated electronic label16 functions as an electronic, scalable, alterable display unit for usein connection with a mammal, non-mammal, selected item, or location.

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of some of the electrical componentswhich can be housed within the activator module 18 of the electroniclabel system 10 of the present invention. The activator module 18 canemploy a processor 34 that is adapted to be used in connection with areceiver 36, a transmitter 38, or any other appropriate antenna device.Those of ordinary skill will readily recognize that the receiver 36 andthe transmitter 38 can be combined into a single transceiver device forboth sending and receiving signals. The illustrated receiver 36 isconfigured for receiving the output signal 20A generated by theelectronic label 16. Conversely, the transmitter 38 operates inconnection with the processor 34 to transmit the output signal 20 thatis received by the antenna 22 housed within the electronic label 16. Theactivator module 18 can be configured to send or receive commands,instructions, software programs, and parameters or variables associatedwith the pixel address locations of the display, the indicia displayedby the label, or instructions for use by the label at a later time, aswell as instructions for other functions associated with the operationof the label as both a ‘smart’ and ‘dumb’ label. The label forms a pixeladdressable display, and is capable of altering specific pixel addresslocations of a display to create, update or change the indicia displayedby the label.

The activator module 18 can have any suitable shape and size consistentwith its intended use and installation. For example, the activatormodule 18 can be a stand alone device separate from the label 16, or canbe connected, secured, affixed or integrally formed with an item thatalso is coupled or in communication with the label or with a devicenormally used in connection with the item. The activator module 18 canbe formed as a portable or hand-held device, or can be of relativelylarge size and fixed temporarily or permanently at a selected location.Additionally, more than one activator module can be employed inconnection with a single label, and systems can be created that employvarious numbers of activator modules 18 and labels 16. Multipleactivators of a single style or variety can be intelligently coupled ornetworked together to provide more complex and sophisticated use.

The processor 34 can be a stand-alone processor or controller used inconnection with the activator module 18. According to an alternateembodiment, the processor 34 can be configured to communicate with oneor more remote devices or controllers, such as the stand-alone computer70, a wired or radio frequency based LAN 72, or a wired or radiofrequency based WAN 74, as illustrated in FIG. 6. Other remote devicesnot illustrated but which can also be coupled to the activator moduleinclude telephones, cable televisions, digital and analog cellular phonenetworks, satellite networks, private, public, military and governmentcontrol and communication systems, internet, world wide web, intranets,Intelligent Appliances, GPS systems, and radios including AM and FMradios broadcasting at various frequencies. The illustrated remotedevices 70-74 can operate in connection with the activator module 18 toform a control and processing system for use with the electronic label16. The remote devices can store selected algorithms or programs forprocessing selected data or instructions received by the activatormodule from the label 16. Alternatively, the remote devices can programor instruct the activator module 18 to perform selected functions, suchas instruct the label to display certain indicia, prestored or not, at acertain time, for a certain duration etc., or for altering the indiciadisplayed by the label. Those of ordinary skill will readily recognizethat the activator module 18 and the remote devices can operate in anyselected manner, such as a distributed processing system, forcontrolling the electronic label 16.

The electronic label 16 of the present invention can be constructed in avariety of different manners for receiving signals from the activatormodule 18, for processing signals, and for activating a pixeladdressable display assembly for displaying selected indicia. Accordingto one embodiment, the electronic label 16 can be formed as a stacked,layered electrical and mechanical structure that employs a number oflayers, each layer of which is adapted to perform a selected function,and which can be integrated together to form a single operableelectronic label. Those of ordinary skill will also recognize that thelabel 16 can employ a single layer. With reference to FIG. 4, aprotection layer 40 can be disposed over a layer of electronic ink 42 inorder to prevent the electronic ink (or display assembly 30) frominadvertent physical trauma and/or environmental damage. The electronicink layer 42 can be formed or constructed of multiple layers ofelectronic ink, but for purposes of illustration and clarity it isillustrated as a single layer. The electronic ink is described as apattern of unique addressable pixel locations. The electronic ink 42 isemployed with an electronic activation grid 44, disposed on a supportstructure, to form the pixel addressable display assembly 30. Theillustrated activation grid can be constructed of one or more layers ofelectronic ink disposed on the activation grid 44 to form a plurality ofaddressable pixel locations. Each pixel can be addressable by theprocessor 24, FIG. 2, and can be contained or formed within theintegrated circuit layer 54. The processor 24 can control, address,alter or change each pixel location in the activation grid 44 to formindicia.

The pixels of the display layer can be designed in a variety ofgeometric shapes and configurations, such as hexagons, squares, dots,triangles or other polygons. Each shape represents a selectedaddressable portion of the display assembly. The electronic ink coveringany specific addressable location may be activated. The coordinatedactivation of multiple pixels creates a pattern of characters, figures,barcodes and other indicia. The geometric shapes forming the pixels canbe packed together as part of the manufacturing process for theelectronic label, and may be arranged in rows and columns, a honeycombarrangement or any other suitable arrangement. The activation grid 44 isintended to be employed in connection with the electronic ink layer 42to form human and/or machine readable indicia. The activation grid 44can be formed in a variety of manners and can have a variety of shapesand electronic configurations. The activation grid can alternatively beconstructed by including a transparent electrode layer located above oron top of the electronic ink layer. The activation grid 44 can bepatterned so as provide sufficient power (e.g., current or voltage) atselected pixel addresses to form indicia. Such patterns includequadrilateral shape matrices (e.g., square or rectangular XY matrices),intersecting arcs, and linear and non-linear patterns, as well as otherdesigns. The activation grid 44 can also be formed in a manner thatreduces the number of necessary current carrying pathways.

A suitable material for the electronic ink imaging layer 42 includeselectronic ink disposed on a suitable support structure, such as on orbetween one or more electrodes. The term “electronic ink” as used hereinis intended to include any suitable bi-stable, non-volatile material.The term “bi-stable” as used herein is intended to indicate that theparticles of the imaging material can alternately occupy two stablestates. For example, the particles corresponding to different pixellocations of the display assembly can alternately occupy an ON or an OFFstate to form selected indicia. In an illustrative embodiment, thedisplay media is reflective to provide a greater viewing angle to theimage displayed by the electronic label 16. In this case, the particlesin the imaging material may be oriented in a first state to reflectlight (ON) or a second state to absorb light (OFF). The term“non-volatile” as used herein is intended to denote that the imagingmaterial has indefinite memory without power and will retain an image inthe absence of power to the electronic label. The particles in theimaging material maintain a first state unless actively directed tochange to a second state. Thus, the imaging surface of the label shows ahigh-quality image even when power to the label is turned off. Theelectronic ink can also be a printable, conductive ink having anarrangement of particles or microscopic containers or microcapsules.Each microcapsule has disposed therein an electrophoretic composition ofa fluid, such as a dielectric or emulsion fluid, and a suspension ofcolored or charged particles or colloidal material. The diameter of themicrocapsules typically ranges from about 30 to about 300 microns.According to one practice, the particles visually contrast with thedielectric fluid. According to another example, the electronic ink caninclude rotatable balls that can rotate to expose a different coloredsurface area, and which can migrate between a forward viewing positionand/or a rear non-viewing position, such as gyricon. Specifically,gyricon is a material comprised of twisting rotating elements containedin liquid-filled spherical cavities and embedded in an elastomer medium.The rotating elements can be made to exhibit changes in opticalproperties by the imposition of an external electric field. Uponapplication of an electric field of a given polarity, one segment of arotating element rotates toward, and is visible by an observer of thedisplay. Application of an electric field of opposite polarity, causesthe element to rotate and expose a second, different segment to theobserver. A gyricon display maintains a given configuration until anelectric field is actively applied to the display assembly. Gyriconparticles typically have a diameter of about 100 microns. Gyriconmaterials are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,147,791, U.S. Pat. No.4,126,854 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,055,091, the contents of which are hereinincorporated by reference.

Electrodes can be used in conjunction with the electronic ink to form anelectronically activatable and addressable display assembly. Theelectrodes can be disposed on and/or cover opposite sides of themicrocapsule arrangement to provide structure for creating a potentialdifference across the electronic ink that causes particles within themicrocapsules to migrate toward one of the electrodes. This migrationcan change the color of the sphere, and hence the pixel location, asviewed by an individual. According to one practice, the microcapsulescan be filled with electrically charged white particles in a black orcolored dye. Examples of electronic ink and methods of fabricatingassemblies capable of controlling or effecting the orientation of theink suitable for use with the present invention are set forth inInternational Patent Application Publication Number WO 98/41899,International Patent Application Publication Number WO 98/19208,International Patent Application Publication Number WO 98/03896, andInternational Patent Application Publication Number WO 98/41898, thecontents of which are herein incorporated by reference.

The term electronic ink can also include a bi-stable non-volatilecholesteric imaging material. The cholesteric liquid crystal materialhas positive dielectric anisotropy and can include a chiral material inan amount effective to form focal conic and twisted planar textures.Typically cholesteric imaging material comprises liquid crystal cellsranging in thickness from about 25 microns to about 50 microns. Suitablecholesteric materials are disclosed for example in U.S. Pat. No.6,154,190, U.S. Pat. No. 6,061,107 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,847,798, thecontents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

In addition, the electronic ink can include zenithal bi-stable displaytechnology to form the bi-stable nonvolatile display assembly comprisedof a bi-stable nematic liquid crystal device cell. The bi-stable nematiccell is provided with a surface alignment grating on at least one cellwall and a surface treatment on an opposite cell wall. The material isactivated by dc pulses to form an image. Suitable zenithal bi-stabledevices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,151,096, world patentapplication number WO09804953A1, world patent application numberWO09934251A1, U.S. Pat. No. 6,054,973, world patent application numberWO00052671A1, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,151,096, the contents of which areherein incorporated by reference.

Further, the electronic ink can include a thermo-chromic material. Athermo-chromic material is capable of changing its state alternatelybetween transparent and opaque upon the application of heat. In thismanner, a thermo-chromic imaging material develops images through theapplication of heat at specific pixel locations in order to form animage. The thermo-chromic imaging material retains a particular imageuntil heat is again applied to the material. The display assembly isreusable, rewritable, non-volatile, bi-stable. Visually, blackcharacters are written in a transparent background by applying heat toselected locations or pixels in the display layer. To form colordisplays other colors, such as red, yellow, and blue are used. Since therewritable material is transparent, UV fluorescent printings, designsand patterns underneath can be seen through.

The electronic ink can also include surface stabilized ferrroelectricliquid crystals (SSFLC). Surface stabilized ferroelectric liquidcrystals confining ferroelectric liquid crystal material betweenclosely-spaced glass plates to suppress the natural helix configurationof the crystals. The cells switch rapidly between two opticallydistinct, stable states simply by alternating the sign of an appliedelectric field.

Magnetic particles suspended in an emulsion comprises an additionalimaging material suitable for use with the present invention.Application of a magnetic force alters pixels formed with the magneticparticles in order to create, update or change human and/or machinereadable indicia. Those skilled in the art will recognize that a varietyof bi-stable non-volatile imaging materials are available and may beimplemented in the present invention.

The electronic ink employed by the label 16 of the present invention canalso be configured as a single color, such as black, white or clear, andcan be fluorescent, iridescent, bioluminescent, incandescent,ultraviolet, infrared, or can include a wavelength specific radiationabsorbing or emitting material. There can be multiple layers ofelectronic ink, each with its own activation grid layer, or multiple inklayers can be serviced by more than one activation grid layer. Differentlayers of electronic ink can have different properties or colors. Thelabel is capable of forming color displays by including differentdisplay layers for each primary color, in a fashion similar to theoperation of a conventional television. Each primary color isselectively activated by addressing particular pixel locations withineach display layer. The combination of different primary color pixelsenables color indicia to be displayed. Any combination of electronic inklayers and activation grid layers are represented for illustration anddiscussion purposes as display assembly 30. Moreover, thecharacteristics of the various layers can be different from each other.For example, one layer can be used to view or display information in thevisible light range, while a second layer responds to or emitsultraviolet light. The non-visible layers can alternatively beconstructed of non-electronic ink based materials that have thepreviously listed radiation absorbing or emitting characteristics. Theelectronic ink employed in connection with the present inventionpreferably has the characteristic that it does not require power tomaintain display of indicia. The support layer suitable for use inconnection with the electronic ink and the activation grid layer 44 canbe formed of any suitable material compatible with the electronic ink,and include Mylar, Kapton, lignocellulosic material, plastic,non-conducting polymers, and the like.

The processor 24 can hence selectively activate an addressable pixellocation on the activation grid to charge the electrodes, and hence theparticles within the bi-stable microcapsules. The particles in themicrocapsule can be transferred between end locations (or betweenelectrodes) in order to display either a white or dark spot. Thecombination of white and dark spots, which correspond to pixellocations, can be patterned to create text and images. Hence, thedisplay assembly 30 in connection with the processor 24 can operate tochange the state of the particles within the microcapsules dependingupon the applied voltage. The voltage or current can be applied to theactivation grid 44 according to known addressing techniques.

With reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, the electronic label 16 can employan onboard power device, such as a battery, or a combination ofoff-board and on-board power sources for powering one or more of thelabel components or layers. The illustrated label 16 is preferably freeof any such onboard power generating source, (i.e. “battery-free”) andemploys a power antenna for receiving power signals from an externalsource, such as from the activator module 18. The power antenna can beformed as a power antenna layer 48 disposed between two shielding layers46 in order to electromagnetically isolate the antenna from one or moreof the other label components. Those of ordinary skill will recognizethat any number and arrangement of shielding layers can be used. Thoseof ordinary skill will also recognize that the activator module 18 cantransmit an appropriate power signal at a selected frequency compatiblewith the power antenna 48 to the label 16 to provide power thereto. Theelectronic label 16 of the present invention can thus employ powerexclusively or solely from an on-board power source, such as from apower storage element (e.g., battery, capacitor, solar cell,micro-mechanical generator, etc.), solely or exclusively from powerreceived from an external source, or from a combination of on-board andoff-board sources. The capability of operating without an on-board powergenerating source allows simplification of the label structure, areduction in the size and weight of the label, and an extended lifetime,as the label is not subject to the limitations of a battery, such as theoperable lifetime of a battery.

The electronic label 16 can function as a stand-alone, integrated, andsubstantially complete electronic label that need not communicate withan external controller for power, such as the activator module 18, orcan be selectively configured to receive power from an external source.According to an alternate embodiment, a receiver, transmitter, orcombined transceiver, or any combination thereof, can also be formed aslayers in the stacked, layered electronic label 16. For example, areceiver layer 50 can be employed in the electronic label 16. Thereceiver layer 50 can be configured to receive signals, such as signals20, from the activator module 18 at a selected frequency. Furthermore,the transmitter layer 52 can be adapted to transmit selected signals,such as signals 20A, from the electronic label 16 to the activatormodule 18 at a selected frequency. The activator module 18 can beconfigured to transmit commands, instructions, software programs, andparameters or variables associated with the pixel address locations ofthe display, the indicia displayed by the label, or instructions for useby the label at a later time, as well as instructions for otherfunctions associated with the operation of the label. The illustratedreceiver layer 50 and the transmitter layer 52 can beelectromagnetically isolated from the power antenna 48 by shieldinglayers 46. Those of ordinary skill will recognize that the power antenna48, receiver 50, and transmitter 52 are optional components of theelectronic label 16. Those of ordinary skill will also recognize thatany number of suitable antennas can be employed in connection with thelabel 16 of the present invention. For example, the label 16 can employa common antenna layer to perform all necessary functions, a discreteantenna for each function, or any subset of antennas for performing oneor more functions.

The illustrated electronic label 16 can further employ an integratedcircuit layer 54 that include one or more other electrical components ofthe electronic label 16. The illustrated integrated circuit 54 ispreferably electrically coupled or disposed in electrical communicationwith one or more layers of the electronic label 16, such as theactivation grid layer 44, the power antenna layer 48, the receiver layer50, and the transmitter layer 52. Moreover, the integrated circuit layercan function as an electronic catch all layer for providing numerouselectrical components employed by the label 16.

FIG. 5 is a broad schematic illustration of the integrated circuit layer54 employed in connection with the electronic label 16 of the presentinvention. The integrated circuit 54 can include the processor 24 andthe storage element 28 discussed above in connection with FIG. 2. Theintegrated circuit layer 54 can also employ a power converter 60 that iscoupled to the processor 24, and is adapted to receive power signals 58generated by the power antenna in response to power signals receivedfrom the activator module 18. The power converter 60 converts the powerantenna signals 58 into suitable output current or voltage signals foruse by the components of the electronic label 16. The illustratedintegrated circuit layer 54 can further employ a transmitter, areceiver, a transceiver, or a combination thereof, as well as asecondary display 64, or any other suitable layered or discreteelectrical component.

Those of ordinary skill will readily recognize that in order to alter orchange the information displayed by the display assembly 30 of theelectronic label 16, the activator module 18 transmits data in lowpowered and/or high frequency radio signals to the antenna element 22,where it is converted into binary information by the processor 24.Further, different power levels and different frequencies can be used totransfer power and/or data between the activator module and the label.The information or data received by the electronic label 16 from theactivator module 18 can include programs or algorithms, or newinformation, that can be employed by the label 16 in a pixel or segmentaddressable manner in order to update, change, alter, or maintainindicia displayed by the display assembly 30, or pixel addressescorresponding to pixel locations in the display.

The information shown on the display assembly 30 can be, according toone embodiment, a subset of the information stored within the storageelement 28, or derived or calculated from information or data stored inthe storage element 28. Moreover, the activator module 18 can beemployed in connection with one or more additional processing or controlapparatus to instruct or activate the electronic label 16.

The layers of the electronic label 16 can be formed of any suitablematerial in order to form a malleable, flexible or inflexible label.According to one embodiment, one or more of the layers can be formed ofplastic, Mylar, Kapton, pulpbased or PET-based material, or othermaterials suitable for employing or supporting electronic ink. Examplesof additional materials suitable for use in connection with the presentinvention include metals, non-metals, ceramic, pulp-base products, suchas paper, cardboard, and cloth, as well as combinations of variousmaterials. Those of ordinary skill will also recognize that each layerof the electronic label 16 can be formed of different materials, andthat the support layers for the electronic ink or one or more of theother layers can be opaque, translucent, colored, flexible, rigid,twistable or bendable. Moreover, the different components of the label16, such as the display, processor, memory, antennas, power converters,and other components, can be distributed in different layers orlocations, or can be co-located or intermingled in different ways in thelabel and throughout the layers. Although the illustrated label 16 isshown with a certain ordered series of layers, the layers can bedistributed differently throughout the stacked label 16. Thefunctionality or fabrication of layers of the label 16 as describedherein can also be combined to reduce the number of layers or separatedto maintain or increase the number of layers.

In a preferred embodiment, the stacked electronic label is resilient andflexible to attach to a variety of objects, similar to the manner inwhich conventional printing labels are attached to an object. The labelconforms to the object without disrupting a display on the label. Thelabel retains a particular display indefinitely, and only modifies adisplay after a specified time or when actively instructed to update thedisplay. The label is durable, ultra-stable to shock, and may be reusedfor a variety of applications. Furthermore, the label is constructed tohave a relatively small thickness to allow flexibility and provide acompact, unobtrusive structure. Therefore, the attachment of a label toan object does not add bulk or weight to the object. According to apreferred embodiment, the thickness of the stacked electronic label isbetween about 100 microns and about 2000 microns, depending on the typeof imaging material or electronic ink used in the label.

A significant advantage of the electronic label 16 of the presentinvention is that it is a remotely updateable, remotely alterable,flexible electronic display device that can be formed as part of anitem, or it can be used in connection with an item to display selectedinformation. Another advantage of the bi-stable, non-volatile electroniclabel 16 of the present invention is that it need not employ a powersource, or require power to maintain a display of selected indicia onthe display assembly 30. The label includes indefinite memory withoutpower. Specifically, the indicia formed by the electronic ink does notrequire power to maintain the selected indicia. Hence, if the activatormodule 18 interrupts or ceases to transmit power signals to theelectronic label 16, the label can still maintain the displaced indiciain human and/or machine readable form.

A particularly significant feature of the label is the capability ofoperating battery-free. The electronic label is capable of displaying ahigh quality image indefinitely, without the added bulk, weight andlimitations of a battery or other onboard power generating source. Powersignals are transmitted via a power antenna to the electronic label andutilized to modify the display only when necessary. Otherwise, theelectronic label requires no power to display information. In thismanner, the size and weight of the label can be significantly reduced.Furthermore, the lifetime of the electronic label is not limited to theshort operable lifetime of a battery.

Another significant advantage of the invention is that the label can beemployed as a smart label for processing signals received from anexternal source and for executing instructions stored in the label, andfor determining the indicia to be displayed. Alternatively, the label ofthe present invention can be employed as a dumb label for processingspecific instructions (e.g., pixel addresses) received from the externalsource. The electronic label can also be employed as a re-useable ordisposable label depending upon the intended use.

Another significant advantage of the present invention is that theactivator module 18 can be formed in any desired shape, or mounted ordisposed at any desired location. Hence, the use of the activator module18 in conjunction with the electronic label 16 forms an unobtrusive,seamless electronic labeling system that can alter or maintain indiciadisplayed in connection with an item, location, or individual.

With further reference to FIG. 4, the integrated circuit layer 54 can beconstructed so as to provide direct or indirect electrical contactsbetween the integrated circuit layer 54 and one or more of the otherlayers 40-52 of the electronic label 16. Those of ordinary skill willreadily recognize that the circuitry employed to create the currentfields or voltages necessary to cause the physical changes in theelectronic ink in the electronic ink layer 42 can be formed as part ofthe integrated circuit layer 54. Those of ordinary skill will alsorecognize that other embodiments of the integrated circuit layer 54exist which can employ discrete components suitable for performingselected functions of the electronic label 16, and which can be mountedin layers other than the integrated circuit layer 54.

Moreover, the activation grid layer 44 of the electronic label 16 canemploy circuitry for addressing one or more selected pixel locationswithin the matrix. For example, the activation grid can employ amodified X, Y style pixel addressable electronic circuitry, or angleradius pixel addressable electronic circuitry, both of which are knownand well characterized in the art. Those of ordinary skill will readilyrecognize that the activation grid can be formed in single or multiplelayers, although a single layer is illustrated for purposes of clarityin the electronic label 16 of FIG. 4.

The label 16 can also include a securing mechanism for securing thelabel to an item, location, or any other suitable support. The securingmechanism is generally schematically illustrated as securing layer 55,and can have any suitable size, shape and configuration. Specifically,the label 16 can be secured to an item or at a location according tomany known mechanical and non-mechanical fastening techniques, which areintended to be generally represented by the securing layer 55. Thesecuring layer can be an adhesive backing or a suitable adhesive, or cangenerally represent securing the label to an item or support byfasteners, stitching, weaving, sewing, laminating, snapping, pinning,tacking, loop and hook-type arrangements, and clipping and the like. Thelabel can be self standing or generally mechanically supported. Thesecuring layer can also be temporarily or permanently attached to theitem, or formed partly or wholly from the item or label. For example,the securing layer 55 can be used to form part of a shelf tag, hangingtag, anti-theft label (electronic label surveillance), or an electronicarticle surveillance (EAS) security device. According to anotherpractice, the label can be integrally formed with the item or location,or formed from or is the same raw stock or material of the item, andhence need not employ the securing layer 55.

The various layers of label 16 can be physically secured together in anumber of different ways, including by traditional mechanical fasteningand/or bonding techniques.

In operation, the activator module 18 can be mounted or fixed at aselected location relative to the electronic label 16 to promotecommunication therebetween. The activator module 18 can be a fixed,stand-alone device that includes all necessary control and processingcircuitry. In an alternate embodiment, the activator 18 can form part ofa distributed processing and control system, such as illustrated in FIG.6. The activator 18 can transmit via a transmitter (such as transmitter38) a selected radio wave signal 20 for powering the label and/orinstructing the label to display particular indicia. The activatormodule 18 can be configured to transmit commands, instructions, softwareprograms, or variables associated with either the pixel addresslocations corresponding to the label display, the indicia to bedisplayed by the label, or instructions for use by the label at a latertime, as well as instructions for other functions associated with theoperation of the label, including providing power signals for poweringthe label. When the integrated, remotely alterable and updateableelectronic label 16 is brought within the field or range of theactivator output signal 20, the power antenna 48 of the label can beactivated by any power signals transmitted by the module 18. The powerantenna 48 receives the power signals generated by the activator module18, which are then converted by the power converter 60, FIG. 5, intosuitable power (e.g., current or voltage). The power supplied to theelectronic label 16 is sufficient to actuate the processor 24. Theprocessor can be programmed or receives instructions to change, alter ormaintain indicia displayed by the display assembly 30, as describedabove. For example, if the display assembly is blank, or if it isdesired to change indicia displayed by the display assembly 30, theprocessor 24 retrieves data stored in the storage element 28, convertsthe data into pixel addresses and following selected or predefinedsequence applies the necessary power to the signal paths within theactivation grid matrix layer 44 to create the display. In thisembodiment, the label 16 is constructed as a smart label and employson-board storage and instructions for performing the operations and fordisplaying selected indicia. The processor 24 can also be constructed toprocess only instructions received from the activator module 18, andhence functions as a dumb label. The processor 24 can address selectedpixel locations in the grid matrix layer consistent with the predefinedsequence in order to actuate the electronic ink disposed in theelectronic ink layer 42. The processor in connection with the activationgrid layer 44 and the electronic ink layer 42 forms selected humanand/or machine readable indicia in the display.

According to an illustrative embodiment, the activator module 18comprises a movable electrode in the form of a stylus or writingimplement. The stylus may be portable, hand-held and have a size, shape,appearance and function similar to a bar code reader. The stylusincludes a surface or a grid of electrodes to be used in combinationwith an electronic label including a single polarity electrode(activation grid). The electrode of the stylus moves over the electronicink in the electronic label to cause the pattern of informationdisplayed by the label to change by determining and causing theappropriate pixels in the display assembly to turn on or off. Theelectrode of the stylus contains an opposite or complementary charge tothe electrode disposed beneath the electronic ink. As the electrodemoves over the electronic ink, it applies a current or charge to thepixel addressable display to change the orientation of specific pixelsin the display layer. The stylus can be mechanically or manually movedover the electronic ink to effect a change in the display.

Additionally, the electronic label 16 can transmit signals from theelectronic label 16 via the transmitter layer 52 (e.g., antenna 22 inFIG. 2). The transmitter layer 52 and the receiver layer 50 can beemployed in connection with the activator module 18 to exchange orupdate information. Hence, the transmitter layer 52 can transmit asignal to the activator module 18 containing information about thestatus of the label or about the position of the label relative to theactivator 18.

The label 16 can be used with one or more other labels to form a groupor an array of display devices that can be remotely updated or alteredin similar or different ways to display similar or differentinformation. The labels in this array can also have differentinformation stored in memory, and hence function in ways different fromother labels in the array. Thus, one or more activators can be used inconnection with the label array to actuate or instruct the labels in thearray to perform or execute predetermined routines and/or to displaypredetermined indicia. Different electronic labels can also be employedin the same application, at the same time, and in the same area. Thelabels in the array need not display information at the beginning, norall be employed at the beginning. For example, the labels can be used asadmission tickets or passes for an amusement park, and can havedifferent values stored in memory in the same type of data field, suchas the number of times the label is used, or communicates with theactivator module. The label can employ a selected color scheme byemploying various background colors to identify the number of times eachlabel is turned on or off. If turned off, each time power is restored tothe label, any new indicia can be displayed on a different colorbackground, which may or may not be the same as the background onanother label in the array. Moreover, all or a portion of theinformation shown on the display may from time appear to be staticand/or dynamic, motion picture, or 3D.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of one application of the electronic label16 of the present invention. The illustrated label 16 can be used,attached, secured or affixed to a camera, camera accessories, filmcontainer or to the illustrated roll of film 80. The film 80 has anouter body 84 that protects a film 82. The label 16 can be sized anddimensioned for securing to the outer body 84. The label 16 cancommunicate, if necessary, with the activator module 18. The label 16 ofthe label system 10 can also be used to automatically and reliably alterthe information 14 displayed by the display assembly to reflect all or asubset of the information temporarily or permanently stored in thestorage element. The stored information can include a unique label/tagidentification number, type of film, total number of exposures,remaining number of exposures, A.S.A. speed, date film was manufactured,date film was first placed in the camera, type of camera, date film wasremoved from the camera, date of processing, location of processing,encrypting software, security codes, and anti-counterfeit software.

In this application of the electronic label, the transmitters andreceivers of the activator module 18 can be mounted in the camera. Thismounting configuration can be accomplished by creating the necessarycircuitry as part of a single or multi-layered integrated circuit builtinto each camera. The camera can be powered by different sources, forexample, by an onboard battery or a charged capacitor that stores energyfrom mechanical motion, from the nearest activator module or from aproximate cell phone network. Once the activator module employed inconnection with the label 16 is powered, it can begin to transmit, asoften as appropriate, power signals to the label 16. Once powered, thelabel can be synchronized with the activator, or can proceed to displayindicia on the display assembly in accord with pre-stored instructions,or in accord with signals received from the activator module.

The camera can also be configured to mount a microprocessor that cantransmit signals as events dictated. For example, when the camera isturned on, the camera can be focused and a picture taken. Each time aperson takes a picture the label 16 on the film 80 can be updated toreflect the latest frame status in preparation for when it is removedfrom the camera, which can be between any exposure or at any time. Thefilm on which the information is displayed can be of any suitableformat, and can include plate type or cartridge type film. The label 16can be formed as an integral part of the container or as an integralpart of the film.

The camera, film container, or film also employs or operates inconjunction with an activator module. The activator module can bemounted within a still camera, motion picture camera, disposable camera,cartridge camera, 35 mm camera, SLR camera, x-ray machine, camera case,film developing equipment, film manufacturing equipment, table, chair,light fixture, television, DVD player, home entertainment system, cabletelevision, satellite television, centralized systems and/or data bases,keyboard, mouse pad, computer peripheral, personal data assistant, voiceactivated device, computer, microprocessor, Java box, common/shareddatabase, files, computer network, electronic data interchange networkequipment, e-commerce system, internet, the world wide web, intranet,Intelligent Appliance phone system, RF computer network backbone, LocalArea Network (LAN) connecting one or more computers, Wide Area Network(WAN) connecting one or more computers, serial or parallel wireconnection to one or more computers, optical connection to one or morecomputers, electromagnetic connection to one or more computers, orcomputer or network operating system.

The electronic label system 10 of the present invention can also beemployed in a retail store environment. FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate theuse of a label 16 in connection with a number of canned goods 88 seatedon a shelf 90 found in a retail store establishment. The illustratedcanned goods are only one example of how label 16 can be used in aretail establishment to sell a retail item. The label can be fashionedas a shelf tag, hanging tag, or a tag directly attached to the item orin an item supply or stocking procedure where the items are identifiedeither directly or indirectly to a shelf label. The label 16 can bemounted to a front portion of the shelf. The label can display indiciacorresponding to certain selected parameters, such as price. The label16 can be used in connection with any item in the retail establishmentto display information about the item. The electronic label 16 mountedor secured to the floor shelves can be manufactured with a shapeconsistent with standard shelf marking labels. The labels can arrive tothe retail store blank, and then be programmed or instructed to displayselected information.

FIG. 8B illustrated an alternate mounting scenario where the label 16 ismounted to an outer surface 89 of the canned goods rather than to theshelf 90. The label can display indicia 14 related to canned goods, suchas number and price 14B, as well as a barcode 14B. The label can be anintegral part of the can paper label or packaging. The blank labels canbe secured to the items according to any standard method, such as glue,stitching, weaving, sewing, lamination, snapping, pinning, tacking,clipping, and the like. The information indicia displayed by the labelcan be actuated by an activator module 18, either held by a clerk orformed or connected as part of the store's computer system. The retailstore can be wired so that one or more fixed activators eliminate theneed for a portable activator module. The label system 10 can beemployed to change the indicia displayed by one or labels in the storeto reflect price changes, such as sales or manager's specials. Thesystem thus creates a relatively easy and time efficient method foreffecting changes in the human or machine readable indicia displayed bythe label. The system thus eliminates the need for manually erasing oldinformation displayed for each item or group of items.

The labels can be attached to different items in any type of retailestablishment and can display different prices for each item or group ofitems. A single activator can be used to remotely update or alter thedisplayed prices, such as reducing the price of the items a selectedamount. Each label receiving the signal from the activator module canindependently calculate a new price and change the display to reflectthe price change.

The label array or group of labels can also be used to identifyadmission prices to a facility, such as an amusement park. The labelscan be configured as wristbands mounted about each park entrant, and candisplay pre-determined information, such as date, type of pass, andprice, as well as information relating to park attractions, such asrides or refreshment stands. This information can include waiting timesfor certain rides, the location of restrooms and food courts, theremaining balance of previously purchased park money and the like.

FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of the label system 10 accordingto the present invention. The illustrated menu 94 can mount a label 16thereon, or the label 16 can be integrally formed as part of the menu.The label 16 displays indicia associated with the restaurant, such asfood type and price. The display portion of the label can display eithera portion of the menu or the entire menu. The label can also beconfigured to display any other information or graphics suitable for therestaurant. The menu 94 can be updated via the on-board labelelectronics, or by an activator module mounted in the restaurant, orheld by the waiter or other employee. For example, if the activator ismounted by a cash register or hostess table, several menus 94 can beupdated at one time by the activator. If the entire restaurant iscovered by one or more fixed activators, the menu 94 can be updated atany item, even when the menu is on the table or in the customer's hand.The ability to seamlessly, remotely or locally update the menu displayis advantageous since the restaurant can in real time inform a customerwhen the kitchen runs out of an item or has to make a substitution.Price changes based on market price, business costs of good orcompetition can be changed as necessary. The display can also be alteredor updated to reflect changes in food offerings, changes in ingredientsof food offerings, options for preparing food offerings, specials of theday, price changes, changes in market prices of menu items, menuidentification number, restaurant name, type of meal (e.g., lunch,dinner, ala carte, etc.), item price, portion size, unit price, marketprice, soup or vegetable of the day, server's name, manager's name,color, shades, promotion logos, promotional symbols, customer name,restaurant club membership designator, personal customized message,encrypting software, security codes, and anti-counterfeit software, andthe like.

The size of the activators for this label system are proportional to thedistance over which they transmit signals. The activator module can beintegrally formed as part of a device sized and dimensioned forcommunicating with the label. The activator can be placed at locationsto provide a selected amount of coverage, such as in or near theceiling. All menus can respond to the activator module by transmittingback their unique identification and all of the data and informationnecessary to allow the activator module to determine which menus need tobe updated, for example, updating only the children's menu.

FIG. 10 illustrates another application of the label system 10 of thepresent invention. FIG. 10 illustrates a keyboard 98 having a pluralityof keys 100. One or more of the keys 100 can have mounted thereon alabel 16. The activator module employed in connection with the keyboardcan be mounted in the keyboard, or nearby in the computer or monitor.The label 16 can be activated to change or alter the symbols displayedin connection with each key. Other embodiments include moldingelectronic displays into special function keys, general purpose buttonsor dials or any other device that uses a visual representation toindicate what happens when a person presses, pushes, pulls, turns,twists lifts it. The remote ability to change the indicia displayed bythe label without direct electrical contact is useful in applicationswhere prolonged or repeated mechanical uses would wear out any directelectrical connection. The keyboard containing the labels can be updatedor changed as the application or situation dictates. The information,data pictures and icons displayed can therefore be context sensitive.They display can be changed based on the environment, the user, theapplication, the user's level and experience, and the like.

FIG. 11 illustrates another application of the label system 10 of thepresent invention. FIG. 11 illustrates a recording media device 104 thathas mounted or secured thereto a label 16. The label can also beintegrally formed or molded as part of the recording media device 104 ormolded into any jacket or packaging surrounding the recording media. Thelabel 16 can display information 14 related to the recording mediadevice or the information stored thereon. The term recording mediadevice is intended to include any device for recording, storing,capturing or holding information, such as video information, audioinformation, and data and the like. For example, the label can beattached to the plastic housing of a computer diskette, a zip disk, aDVD, a VHS tape, or a music cassette or the memory cards, memory sticksor any type of removable magnetic, flash memory or solid state deviceused in MP3 type players, recording devices, and digital cameras. In thecase of diskettes, the label can be attached to the jacket inserted intoa disk drive. The label can also be fabricated directly into the media,such as in the center of a CD or DVD or the memory cards, memory sticksor any type of removable magnetic, flash memory or solid state deviceused in MP3 type players, recording devices, and digital cameras. In thecase where the recording media device is a disk that has a label securedthereon, the label can display information related to the contents ofthe disk, such as the type of software, files, version number, amount ofavailable storage space, and the like. The information displayed by thelabel 16 can be updated in real time, such as during use, or at anyother appropriate time. For example, when a new file is written to adiskette, the size of the file or directory and the date the file ordirectory is last can be shown on the label. According to one practice,the label can display and update this information while the diskette isin the disk drive.

The information displayed by the label 16 can be altered each time themedia device 104 is placed into an appropriate structure, such as diskdrives, digital video disk drives, zip drives, laser disk drives, andthe like, and tape drives, such as magnetic tape drives, and recordingtape drives. The activator module can be mounted within the housing ofthe disk drive. Since the activator module does not need to make directcontact with the disk, the activator can instruct the label to alter orupdate information displayed by the label even while the disk isspinning. The activator module can thus be configured for activating thelabel independent of label movement. The activator module can also bedisposed as another computer device integrated with other equipment,which can stand alone on a desk or tabletop or can be hand held. Theactivator module can be used to update information in connection withcash cards, electronic wallets, debit cards, bank cards, etc. Sincemaintaining direct contact and/or proper alignment and or constantdistance or speed or line of sight are not required by the label system10 of the present invention, the system can be installed and easilyused. For example, the user places the recording media device into thesuitable structure, such as a disk drive, so that the drive can read orwrite information to the media device. The user then removes the mediawhich now contains a visual record of what is recorded on the mediadevice. Other embodiments of the media device include media devices usedfor computers or entertainment, such as a laser disk, video cassette,VHS cartridge, Beta max cartridge, zip drive, or any other type ofoptical or electromagnetic media.

The recording media device can also items carried in a persons pocket,wallet, or purse, or to items a person uses to track debit or creditcard balance, activity, status, goals, rewards or bonus levels, andbenefits. Examples or such items include permanent account items, suchas charge cards, electronic purses, credit cards, debit cards, telephonecards; temporary account items, such as mass transit fare cards,telephone cards, vending machine cash cards; memberships, such asmemberships in commercial establishments; and identification items, suchas ID cards, food cards, insurance policy identification cards, driverlicenses, public and private lottery tickets, and warranties.

In another application, the electronic label 16 of the present inventioncan be employed by the travel, postal or packaging industry, such asairlines, to label a variety of items, including packages, letters andluggage. In the case of the airline industry, the electronic label canbe used to replace conventional tags or stickers that are manuallyapplied to the luggage by the airline. By employing the electronic labelof the present invention, the label can be configured as a disposablelabel that can be discarded after use. Conversely, the label can beconfigured as a re-usable label that is reprogrammed or instructed todisplay indicia associated with another passenger's luggage. Inaddition, the label 16 can be manufactured as an integral piece or partof luggage or shipping container so that it can be cleared after eachtrip and display new indicia.

In this application, the electronic label 16 of the present inventioncan be employed when a passenger is checking in. First the properpassenger information can be retrieved from the airline reservationsystem. Attached to the reservation system at the check in point can bean activator module, such as module 18. The module 18 can be mounted inthe counter walls near the luggage weight scale, in the check in counterproximate the luggage scales, or the module can be an integral part ofthe scale, or it can be constructed as a hand held device that the checkin attendant or curb side baggage handler places near the passenger'sluggage. The activator module 18 can communicate and update severalelectronic labels at once. Alternatively, fixed location activatormodules can be placed at strategic locations along the end to end systemwide baggage handling process. This includes the conveyor belts thatmove the luggage between the check in counter and the plane. Forexample, every time the luggage is switched from one conveyor belt orsystem to another, the activator module can change the label indiciasignifying the status of the luggage. When the luggage is removed fromthe plane and placed on a cart, another activator module 18 can alterthe display to identify the luggage destination. This is especiallyuseful for connecting flights or long layovers or when a plane isremoved from service after the luggage was initially loaded on theairplane. Activator modules can be placed at the cargo bay entrances tothe airplanes luggage compartments. Activator modules can also be partof the large common containers used to load the luggage. Alternatively,the activator modules can be placed at baggage pick up conveyor beltsand at exit doors.

The activator modules can be placed in communication with a hostprocessing system or with a standalone processing system. If a standalone integrated labeling system is employed, the non integratedactivator module can display the current status of the luggage, whichcan then be connected to the host system or primary computer. The systemcan be updated the next time the tag comes within the electromagneticfield of the activator, or when the activator is connected to thesystem. In either case, some or all information on the label, whenupdated, allows the machine or human to adjust the steps taken based onwhat is shown.

Additional security measure and theft prevention and loss of luggage andimproper routing of luggage can be accomplished with this electroniclabeling system, especially since there can be remote standalonelocations that automatically change the information displayed. The barcodes are changed as necessary to reflect the changing status of therelevant information thereby increasing the level of routing automationthat can be applied to a given piece of luggage.

According to another application, the label can be employed inconnection with a built in Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system tostore the position when the electronic label was last activated. Acommon signal command is transmitted by the GPS system. These signalsare received by the label whenever power is available. The processor candetermine the current label position from these signals. The label canthen process the GPS signals locally and change the label display ifnecessary.

According to another application, the labels can receive from theactivator module a common encrypted message signal, instruction orcommand. The labels in the array can be assigned unique encryption keys.Therefore, a common encrypted message broadcast to the electronic labelscan be decoded only by a subset of the labels receiving the broadcastedsignal.

In accordance with another application of the present invention, theelectronic label can be affixed to, or become part of, items used topermanently or temporarily capture, record, hold or store information aspart of an item associated with a physical monetary instrument and/or aphysical representation of a transaction. The term monetary instrumentincludes physical or non-physical instruments intended to signify,identify, correspond, or represent value of some amount. For example,the monetary instrument can be an item of value, such as paper currency,stock and bond certificates, government or corporate bonds andcertificates, vouchers, checks, deposit slip, withdrawal slips, treasurynotes, gift cards, currency wrappers, and the like, or represent an itemof value, such as financial information, transaction receipts, and thelike. The electronic label can afford multiple levels of security forthe physical monetary instruments. For example, public and privateencrypting keys and other forms of electronic security can be disposed(burned) into and/or downloaded into the electronic label.

The characteristics of the bi-stable non-volatile imaging materialcontained in the display portion of the electronic label can be modifiedto give specific predetermined responses to outside physicalinterrogation. For example, fluorescent ink illuminates when excitedwith the appropriate radiation from an external source. Thecharacteristics of the electronic ink contained in the display portionof the electronic label can be configured or constructed to givespecific predetermined responses to signals received by the electroniclabel. For example different layers of display with differentcharacteristics optical can be activated to respond with patterns basedon a decoded message. The electronic label can also be adapted toalternate between displaying a message in the visible wavelength rangeand displaying a fluorescent message. Those of ordinary skill willreadily recognize that other types of electronic ink can be usedincluding fluorescent, iridescent, bioluminescent, incandescent,ultraviolet, infrared, and wavelength specific radiation absorbingmaterial. A variety of these optical characteristics can be combined toprovide additional mechanisms for authentication and security ofmonetary instruments.

Other applications related to monetary instruments can include employinga label (such as in strip form) in connection with one or more monetaryinstruments, or with a stack or selected number of monetary instruments.The activator module can then be employed to interrogate or communicatewith the labels to determine the number of labels and the type and/ornumber of monetary instruments. From this information, it is relativelyeasy to determine the amount of money at a selected location.Alternatively, a built in activator module can be mounted in amechanical bill counter. This arrangement ensures that all monetaryinstruments passing through the counter are authentic based on a uniqueserial number encrypted in a label mounted within or formed as anintegral part of each bill.

The display assembly can display information associated, related orcorresponding to the monetary instrument. The label also employstructure, such as the processor, for automatically altering thedisplayed information to reflect all or a subset of the informationtemporarily or permanently stored in a storage element mounted in thelabel. For example, the label can display information associated withthe value of a certain number or type of currencies (e.g., dollars,deutschemarks, francs, pounds, etc.), an account number, anidentification number (e.g., a serial number), an organization orcountry or government that initially issued the monetary instrument, afinancial institution, electronic financial routing information,security codes, and encrypting and anti-counterfeit algorithms.

An activator module can be used in connection with the monetaryinstrument for activating the label associated therewith. The activatormodule can be integrally formed as part of a receiving device sized anddimensioned for receiving or communicating with the monetary instrument.The receiving device can include a money counting machine, counterfeitinspection station, cash register or draw, securities validationmachine, bond validation machine, and an ATM machine. The activatormodule can alter information in the label without necessarily contactingthe label or the monetary instrument. For example, the activator modulecan update the label display even when the monetary instrument is in apocket, non conductive package, cash/bill holding compartment in awallet or purse, non conducting cash registers and bill countingmachines, gambling table cash draw, and non conducting bank tellerdraws.

According to another application, the label of the present invention canbe secured to a card sized item used to hold or store at least one of amonetary balance, an account number, identification indicia, andinstructions, as well as any other information suitable for a particularintended use. The card sized item can be sized and dimensioned forplacement into a suitable holder element, such as a shirt pocket,wallet, purse, bill fold, business card case, credit card bill fold,picture holders, and checkbook, or an item issued in connection with apermanent financial account, a point based account, a temporary monetaryaccount, a membership, a promotion service, a travel related serviceaccount, a charge account, a credit account, a debit account, a bonusaccount and an identification card. Examples of such cards include adebit card, credit card, cash withdrawal card, electronic giftcertificate card, discount card, mass transit fare card, phone card,membership card, security card, driver's license, ID card, employeecard, convention badge/card, gambling club card, keys for electronicdoor locks, insurance cards, toll cards and the like. The label can beintegrally formed with the card sized item or formed from the samematerial that forms the label. The card-sized item can also beconfigured for storing software for automatically updating machinereadable indicia to create or display optical symbologies (e.g., 2D barcodes) on the display assembly. The label can then be used in connectionwith electronic indicia reading equipment, such as a bar code reader,for reading the optical symbologies from the label.

The label can also be used with an activator module that is integrallyformed as part of a device sized and dimensioned for receiving orcommunicating with the item. Examples of such items include a telephoneor telephone booth, turnstile, doorway, cash register, card reader,vending machine, electronic purse reader, electronic wallet reader, ATMmachine, automatic lock/door opener, mass transit fare box, securityaccess stations, doorway, electronic door lock, badge reader, cashregister, card reader, strip reader, vending machine, and parking lotsand garages. The activator can alter information in the labelindependently or without directly c contacting the label. For example,the activator module can alter or update the label when the card isdisposed in an article of clothing, a non conductive package, a wallet,purse, bill fold, business card case, credit card bill folder, walletpicture holders, or checkbook.

The electronic label system of the present invention can employ softwarefor altering or changing the price of an item or a group of items basedon real time supply and demand. The label system can monitor the numberof items purchased by monitoring the number of items passing throughcheckout. From this information, the system can track inventory (howmany items on the shelf), and can instantaneously adjust the pricedisplayed by the label in response the supply and demand. The labelsystem can also change, alter or modify the information displayed by thelabel in connection with the item as the item moves through variousmanufacturing steps, wholesale/retail distribution, sales, purchasing,customer or end user transporting.

The electronic label system of the present invention can also be used tocoordinate a price for an item displayed on a shelf with a scanner atcheckout at a store. The label system can be used to quickly and easilychange and update prices or other information corresponding to an itemor items in a store from a central location. The size of the labelallows the label to discreetly fit into a groove on a store shelfwithout interferring with customer access to products.

According to another application, the label 16 of the present inventioncan be attached to or fashioned as a wristband or ankle band for use bya person or animal. The label 16 can display information relating to theperson or animal, an item worn by the person, the current site orlocation of the person/animal, the service to which the person isentitled, employment or personal related information, conventionattendance related information, routing information for theperson/animal, selective portions of the history of the person/animal,as well as any other suitable information. The label can also be sizedand dimensioned for securing to an item worn externally and readilyvisible, such as decorative pin, badge holder, pendant, necklace, badge,or made as part of an article of clothing or gear worn by a person(e.g., hat, jacket, knapsack, belt) or the like or to an item (e.g.,card, coin, token) carried by the person in a location from which it canbe easily retrieved and presented (e.g., pocket, wallet purse).

The label 16 can be used to convey information to other people or tomachines adapted to act upon all or a portion of the informationdisplayed by the label. The information can be used to identify theperson or animal in possession of the item, to allow access to a securedor unsecured facility or site, or to receive special privileges. Thedisplay portion of the label can readily display information thatdirectly identifies the bearer, such as by name, image, oridentification number, or to anonymously identify the bearer, such as bypossessing the item. Examples of sites or facilities that the label canallow the bearer to gain access include but are not limited to anamusement park, theme park, amusement ride, arcade, racing event, beach,pool, fair, park, zoo, museum, art gallery, festival, sporting event oractivity (e.g., skiing), concert, entertainment event, tournament, spa,hotel, motel, inn, or resort, political event, convention, industrialshow, exhibit, educational/training institution, hospital, nursing home,extended care facility, camp, jail, prison, place of employment,security sensitive area, government building, military installation,movie, theater, cruise ship, auction, livestock feeding or raisingfacility, and parking garage.

The label 16 can also be used to track the position or status of aperson or item, as well as track the number of times an activity isperformed, the number of uses remaining for a given activity, how manytimes a ride is taken, the number of uses remaining for a given ride,remaining balance of prepaid spending money, and the like.

The label can also be formed as integral to or replace the item. Theitem and/or label can also be formed as a wristband, ankle band, bearercard, ear clip, identification tag, identification card, admissionscard, admission badge or pass, livestock tag, re-entry pass, allowancecard, pendent, pin, convention, symposium, or employee badge, electronicdoor key, security badge, admissions ticket, pass, electronic door key,fan card, club membership card, team identification card, hat band, hatpin, tag, belt, collar, ring, earring, health insurance card, medicalalert band, or travelling card, decorative pin, badge holder, pendant,necklace, badge, or formed as part of an article of clothing or gearworn by a person (e.g., hat, jacket, knapsack, belt) or the like.

According to another application, the label system of the presentinvention can be used to provide visible mailing/shipping/routinginformation about the destination of a letter, package or luggage. Thelabel 16 can be an integral part of the luggage, overnight mailingpackage, or shipping container to display information about the luggage,letter or package to which the label is attached. The items can betypically handled by an airline, cruise line, train, tour operator,hotel luggage handler, luggage storage area, bus company, overnightexpress mailing company, parcel post shipper, package deliver service,government postal organization, bulk mailer, catalogue shipping, homeshopping organization, record club customer shipment, internet shoppingcustomer shipment, home television shopping customer shipment,e-commerce customer shipment, department store customer shipment, retailstore customer shipment, or sweepstakes mailing.

The label system of the present invention when used in this manner canallow people or machines to display all or a subset of the informationstored in the label in order to determine the person traveling with theluggage, identify the owner of the luggage, appropriate routes of travelfor the luggage, class of service, identity of person shipping/mailing apackage, type of service desired for shipping/mailing, amount paid toship/mail a package, routes for delivery, transfer points for luggage,connecting flights, airport transfer hubs, transfer points for packagesbeing mailed, sorting locations for letters or packages, and identity ofselected ports. When used in this manner, the label 16 of the labelsystem 10 functions as an address or shipping label, luggage tag,adhesive or stick on shipping label, luggage storing label, passengeridentification tag, and/or airline ticket.

In this application, the activator module can be part of or comprise anairline check in counter, airline ticket issuing printer, e-ticketkiosk, baggage check in kiosk, skycap check in station, boarding gate,departure door, airplane boarding ramp, automated baggage handlingsystem, portable baggage ramp conveyor belts on trucks, cargo/baggagedoors of an airplane, transfer point on baggage conveyor belt,intersection of baggage conveyor belts, reading stations on baggageconveyor belts, baggage pick up conveyor carousels, door ways, securitycheck points, ship hatches, cabins, ship loading ramps (gangways),cargo/luggage storage holds, luggage compartments, hotel entrances,hotel check-in counters, bell stands, wheeled luggage racks, hotel roomentrances, storage rooms, car trunks, bus luggage compartments, tractortrailer loading docks, tractor trailer loading doors, post office clerkwindows, delivery person, pick up person, deliver truck, pickup truck,walk up manned mailing window, walk up unmanned mailing window/drop offboxes, drive up mailing window/drop off, self standing overnight mailingkiosks, mail boxes, drop boxes, automated parcel moving system,automated mail sorting systems, automated postage canceling system,automated postage affixing system, cars trucks, mail trays, mailcontainers, parcel bins, parcel/mail sacks, turnstile, doorways, door,gates, turnstiles, elevator, escalator, access/security monitoringsystem, reservation system, seat assignment system, American Associationof Travel agents reservation system, SABRE system, travel ticketingsystem, boarding monitoring system, luggage tracking systems,centralized systems and/or data bases, keyboard, keypad, Personal DataAssistant(Palm Pilot), voice activated device, stand alone computer,stand alone PC, inventorying equipment, common/shared data base, files,centralized computer, computer network, electronic data interchangenetwork equipment, e commerce system, world wide web, internet,intranet, network, phone system, RF computer network backbone, LocalArea Network connecting one or more computers, Wide Area Networkconnecting one or more computers, serial wire connection to one or morecomputers, parallel wire connection to one or more computers, opticalconnection to one or more computers, electromagnetic connection to oneor more computers, and a computer or network operating system.

The activator module 18 of the label system 10 can have any size andshape and can be mounted at any suitable location. For example, theactivator module can be a stand alone antenna or multiple antennas, ormounted in or at a wall, floor, ceiling, light fixtures, tram,turnstile, doorway, door, gate, entry way or passage way, swingingarm/gate, elevator, escalator, moving sidewalks, airline check incounter, ticketing kiosks, check in kiosks, travel related kiosks,skycap check in counter, boarding gate counter, departure gate doorway,departure gate doorway, boarding pas collection equipment, airplaneboarding ramp, entry and exit portals/openings into/out of automatedbaggage handling systems, portable baggage ramp conveyor belts ontrucks, cargo/baggage doors of airplanes, proximate baggage handlingconveyor belts, reading stations on baggage conveyor belts, baggage pickup conveyor carousels, security check point portals, carry on luggagechecking equipment, ship hatches, ship cabins, ship loading ramps(gangways), cabin entry door/hatches, cargo/luggage storage holds, shipluggage compartments, hotel entrances, hotel check-in counters, bellstands, wheeled luggage racks, hotel room entrances, storage rooms, cartrunks, bus luggage compartments, tractor trailer loading docksdoorways, tractor trailer doorways, post office clerk windows, recordingor logging devices carried by delivery/pick up person, deliver truckdoorways, delivery trucks, pickup trucks, customer servicing counters,cash registers, weighing stations, scales, and local postal issuingstations/offices, windows, passage ways for packages, mailing kiosks,mail boxes, drop boxes, automated parcel moving system, automated mailsorting systems, cars trucks, mail trays, mail containers, parcel bins,parcel/mail sacks, equipment used by postal clerks, equipment used byairline check in agents, equipment used by shipping and receivingpersonnel, equipment used by pick up and delivery personnel, doorways,door, gates, turnstiles, elevator, escalator, keyboard, keypad, personaldata assistant, voice activated device, computer network, a stand alonecomputer, mouse pad, computer peripheral, microprocessor, and Java box.

According to still another application, the label 16 of the label system10 can be sized and dimensioned to be secured to a general purpose gameboard, integrally formed as part of the game board, or formed from thesame material or stock that forms the game board. Likewise, the labelcan be secured to game pieces, integrally formed as part of the gamepiece, or formed from the same material or stock that forms the gamepiece. According to one practice, the label can be attached to or formspart of the covering of an appropriately sized and shaped game boardtop, upon which the game is played. Examples of types of game boards andgame pieces include a checker and chess board, Parcheesi board, Monopolyboard, Scrabble board, Backgammon board, BINGO, Trivia pursuit, Mahjongboard, UNO, Life, and Chutes and Ladders. A single game board can beprovided, and the display can be altered to represent the game board fora selected game. For example, the label can first display a checkersboard and then display a backgammon board, when desired. The labelsystem 10 can alter the display based upon selected programs to create adynamic game. For example, a new type of dynamic game can be createdusing an array of game pieces, each containing the label system 10and/or game boards that include the label 16 and activator module. Thesystem 10 can alter the appearance and meaning of the game board and/orgame pieces throughout the game.

The label 16 of the system 10 can also be used to automatically andreliably change the appearance (pixels) of the display assembly toreflect all or a subset of the information temporarily or permanentlystored in the storage element of the label. The information stored inthe storage element can include a unique label/tag identificationnumber, name of game, logo of game, lines, squares, boxes, start point,end point, finish, value, name of establishment, odds, numbers, letters,words, imaginary characters, characters, color, shades, encryptingsoftware, security codes, and anti-counterfeit software.

New and different variations of table and gambling games can be createdby incorporating the label system 10 or label 16. Examples of such gamesinclude blackjack, roulette, craps, Caribbean poker, Baccarat, pool,billiards, and bumper balls.

Similarly, the activator module 18 of the label system 10 can compriseor be formed as part of a black jack table, craps table, roulette table,Caribbean poker, Baccarat, pool, billiards, bumper balls, gamblingmonitoring/surveillance system, security system, electronic pokernetwork, electronic cumulative jackpot system, video game, Windows basedgame Application, dedicated game microprocessor, table, chair, lightfixture, electronic table top, television, DVD player, homeentertainment system, cable television, satellite television,centralized systems and/or data bases, keyboard, keypad, personal dataassistant(Palm Pilot), voice activated device, stand alone computer,common/shared data base, files, computer network, electronic datainterchange network equipment, e-commerce system, internet (includingthe world wide web), intranet, phone system, RF computer networkbackbone, Local Area Network (LAN) connecting one or more computers,Wide Area Network (WAN) connecting one or more computers, serial wireconnection to one or more computers, parallel wire connection to one ormore computers, optical connection to one or more computers,electromagnetic connection to one or more computers, computer or networkoperating system. The activator module can be placed or mounted on,under, behind, within, integral to, suspended from, covering, orattached to an object normally found in all types of homes, game rooms,casinos, bingo parlors, pool halls, camps, schools, day care centers,gyms, health clubs, spas, and the like.

According to another application, the label 16 of the label system 10 ofthe present invention can also be used in connection with an informationorganizing item, such as a calendar, day timer, phone book, addressbook, recipe book, planner, appointment scheduler, rolodex, date book,agenda planner, guest book, and log book. The information organizingitem can be attached to a larger piece of furniture or equipment, suchas a refrigerator, desk, counter top, credenza, table, bulletin board,door, desk organizer, or cabinet, and the like. The label can be adaptedto automatically and reliably alter or update the information shown bythe display assembly to reflect all or a subset of the informationtemporarily or permanently stored in the storage element of the label.The stored information can include a unique label/tag identificationnumber, type of organizer, manufacturer name, day, month year, date,time, appointment, birthday, holiday, meeting, telephone number, streetaddress, street name, city, state, zip code, e-mail address, lines,boxes, squares, phone message, names, call back time, encryptingsoftware, security codes, and anti-counterfeit software, and the like.

The label system 10 can also employ an activator module mounted relativeto the information organizing element so as to actuate the label 16, ifnecessary. For example, the activator module can be mounted beneath thedisplay of the information organizing element to display information. Itis apparent that associated elements of the label system can beconfigured to determine electronically, optically (laser or infraredlight beams), or mechanically (via pressure sensors or stylus), selectedinformation, thus allowing the display to be modified in real time. Thisallows information to be displayed as it is entered, while concomitantlyenabling and creating the appearance and ability to write or draw.

The display assembly can be self contained on the information organizingitem and can be powered by a battery disposed local to the item, suchthat the entire item becomes self contained and can be updated whereverand whenever desired.

The illustrated electronic label 16 or electronic labeling system 10 canbe employed in a number of additional environments, applications oruses. Examples of such environments, uses and applications as set forthabove are not intended to be exhaustive of the total number ofapplications, and is not intended to limit or preclude additionalapplications or uses not set forth herein.

It will thus be seen that the invention efficiently attains the objectsset forth above, among those made apparent from the precedingdescription. Since certain changes may be made in the aboveconstructions without departing from the scope of the invention, it isintended that all matter contained in the above description or shown inthe accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in alimiting sense.

It is also to be understood that the following claims are to cover allgeneric and specific features of the invention described herein, and allstatements of the scope of the invention which, as a matter of language,might be said to fall therebetween.

Having described the invention, what is claimed as new and desired to besecured by Letters Patent is:
 1. A stacked, layered electronic labelsuitable for displaying information, said label providing a combinationcomprising one or more display layers including electronic inkcomprising a bi-stable, non-volatile imaging material disposed on asupport, one or more activation grid layers for activating said imagingmaterial, one or more antenna layers for sending or receiving signalscorresponding to programs, instructions, data or indicia to be displayedby said display assembly, and a processor layer including one or moreprocessors and a storage element, said storage element storing one ofindicia, data, programs and instructions, said processor layer incircuit with said display layer, said activation layer, and said antennalayer for determining intelligently indicia to be displayed by saiddisplay layer, for controlling and coordinating operation of said label,and for generating output signals for instructing the display layer todisplay the indicia through said imaging material, wherein said displaylayer, said antenna layer, said activation grid layer, and saidprocessor layer are stacked together to form said stacked electroniclabel; said combination being cooperatively operable a) throughoperation of said one or more antenna layers, to activate saidbi-stable, non-volatile imaging material independent of any power sourceon said label, b) to cause said imaging material to provide enduringactivation thereof independent of maintenance of said signals, and c)said signal activated, imaging material providing a display related tothe intended function of said label, with said bi-stable, non-volatileimaging material allowing said display to remain visible and stable. 2.The electronic label of claim 1, wherein: said electronic label isflexible and resilient; and said electronic label operates without anon-board power source.
 3. The electronic label of claim 2, wherein saiddisplay assembly is adapted to continue to display said indiciaindependent of power continuing to be supplied to said label.
 4. Thestacked electronic label of claim 2, wherein said one or more antennalayers comprises a power antenna layer for receiving a power signal froma source, and for generating an output power signal for powering theelectronic label.
 5. The electronic label of claim 2, further comprisingan activator module for generating an output power signal for providingpower off-board of said module.
 6. The electronic label of claim 2,wherein said one or more antennas of said electronic label comprises apower antenna for receiving a power signal from a source, and forgenerating power necessary to power the electronic label.
 7. The labelof claim 2, further comprising a securing layer for securing said labelassembly to a media item employed for storing or displaying selectedinformation.
 8. The label of claim 7, wherein said media item comprisesat least one of a electromagnetic, optical, and pulp based storagedevice.
 9. The label of claim 8, wherein said media item comprises oneof a computer diskette, computer zip drive, computer DVD disk, magnetictape, VHS tape, digital recording tape, MP3 type player, MP3 typerecording device, digital camera, writable DVD disk, paper, binder,folder, and book.
 10. The electronic label of claim 1, wherein theelectronic label is battery-free.
 11. The electronic label of claim 1,wherein the electronic ink comprises a gyricon material.
 12. Theelectronic label of claim 1, wherein the electronic ink comprises acholesteric material.
 13. The electronic label of claim 1, wherein theelectronic ink comprises one of a zenithal bi-stable device material andnematic material.
 14. The electronic label of claim 1, wherein theelectronic ink comprises a thermo-chromic material.
 15. The electroniclabel of claim 1, wherein the electronic ink comprises surfacestabilized, ferroelectric liquid crystals.
 16. The electronic label ofclaim 1, wherein the electronic label is flexible and resilient.
 17. Theelectronic label of claim 16, wherein the electronic label has athickness range between about 100 microns and about 2000 microns. 18.The electronic label of claim 1, wherein the electronic label has athickness range between about 100 microns and about 2000 microns. 19.The electronic label of claim 1, wherein the electronic label isincorporated in a supply and demand pricing system for instantaneouslyadjusting a price of an item depending on a purchased quantity of theitem, wherein said price is displayed on said display layer.
 20. Thelabel of claim 19, further comprising means for altering said display ofsaid label based upon a number of items purchased and the number ofitems in stock.
 21. The electronic label of claim 1, wherein theelectronic label is configured as an anti-theft device.
 22. Theelectronic label of claim 1, wherein the electronic label is configuredas a removable magnetic, flash memory or solid state device employed inconjunction with a recording media device.
 23. The label system of claim22, wherein said recording media device comprises one of a computerperipheral recording device, a home entertainment recording device, andan imprinting device.
 24. The electronic label of claim 1, furthercomprising an on board power source for supplying power to said labelcomprising one of a battery, storage capacitor and combinations thereof.25. The stacked electronic label of claim 1, further comprising anactivator module for activating said label assembly.
 26. The stackedelectronic label of claim 25, wherein said activator module comprisesone of a processor, computer, LAN, WAN, computer network, Java box,cellular telephone network, pager network, satellite broadcast network,control and communication system, internet, intranet, GPS system, andradiowave generating system, and intelligent appliance.
 27. Theelectronic label of claim 25, wherein output activator signals generatedby said activator module correspond to software programs,commands/instructions, parameters, data or the indicia to be displayedby said display assembly.
 28. The label of claim 25, wherein saidactivator module comprises means for altering information in said labelassembly independent of contact between said label assembly and saidactivator module.
 29. The label of claim 1, further comprising aprotection layer coupled to said display layer for protecting saiddisplay layer and specifically to protect the electronic ink fromphysical or environmental damage.
 30. The label of claim 1, furthercomprising an securing layer for securing said label assembly to anitem, wherein said label displays information in connection with saiditem.
 31. The label of claim 30, wherein said label assembly fathercomprises means for automatically changing information displayed by saiddisplay assembly to reflect information stored in the item, informationabout the item, information about when the item is to be returned, orinformation on the item.
 32. The label of claim 1, wherein said label isintegrally formed in a housing or packaging in which a media item isused or placed.
 33. The label of claim 1, wherein said label isintegrally formed with a media item and displays information inconnection with said media item.
 34. The label of claim 1, furthercomprising a securing layer for securing the label to a monetaryinstrument, wherein said label records or represents a monetary orfinancial transaction.
 35. The label of claim 34, wherein the monetaryinstrument includes one of a, bank check, deposit slip, withdrawal slip,stock certificate, bond, treasury note, deed, will, gambling chip,lottery ticket, ration card, food stamps, paper currency and papernotes.
 36. The label of claim 34, further comprising an activator modulefor activating said label, wherein said activator module is integrallyformed as part of a receiving device sized and dimensioned forcommunicating with said monetary instrument.
 37. The label of claim 36,wherein said receiving device comprises one of a money counting machine,counterfeit inspection station, cash register, cash draw, cashierwindow, securities validation machine, bond validation machine, and anATM machine.
 38. The label of claim 34, wherein said monetary instrumentcomprises a gambling chip.
 39. The label of claim 38, wherein theelectronic label displays a monetary value in connection with saidgambling chip.
 40. The label of claim 39, further comprising means forchanging the displayed monetary value.
 41. The label claim 34, whereinsaid monetary instrument comprises currency, said currency having astrip woven therein.
 42. The label of claim 1, further comprising asecuring layer for securing said label assembly to an item, and whereinsaid label assembly is sized and dimensioned for being secured with saidsecuring layer to a card sized item.
 43. The label of claim 42, whereinsaid card sized item is sized and dimensioned for placement into asuitable holder element.
 44. The label of claim 43, wherein said holderelement comprises one of a shirt pocket, wallet, purse, bill fold,business card case, credit card holder, bill fold, picture bolder, andcheckbook.
 45. The label of claim 42, wherein said card sized itemcomprises an item issued in connection with a; least one of a permanentfinancial account, a point based account, a temporary monetary/financialaccount, a membership, a promotion service, a travel related serviceaccount, a charge account, a credit account, a debit account, a bonusaccount, and an identification card, a social security card, anelectronic purse, electronic cash card, mass transit fare card, vendingmachine card, phone card, a drive license, a military identificationcard, an employee badge, an insurance card, electronic door lock key,parking garage pass and convention pass.
 46. The label of claim 1,timber comprising a securing layer for securing said label assembly toan item used to hold or store at least one of a monetary balance, anaccount balance, a name, an account number, an organization or companyname, identification indicia, and instructions.
 47. The label of claim1, wherein said label further comprises alteration means forautomatically altering information displayed by said imaging material.48. The label of claim 1, wherein said label is integrally formed with acard sized item and displays information connection with said card sizeditem.
 49. The label of claim 48, wherein said card sized item isconfigured for storing software for automatically updating machinereadable indicia to crease optical symbologies on said display layer,such that the card sized item is generally compatible with selectedelectronic indicia reading equipment.
 50. The label of claim 1, whereinthe label displays information in connection with an item, wherein saiditem comprises one of a turnstile, gaze, public parking garage accessand egress gates, doorway, cash register, card reader, vending machine,electronic purse reader, electronic wallet reader, ATM machine,electronic door key, electronic fare card readers, door access readers,airport boarding card reading/issuing systems, security systems, accesssystems, convention badge readers, and gas pump readers.
 51. The labelof claim 1, further comprising a securing layer for securing said labelto an item, wherein said label is sized and dimensioned for securingwith said securing layer to an information organizing item fororganizing information.
 52. The label of claim 51, wherein saidinformation organizing item comprises one of a calendar, clay timer,phone book, address book, recipe book, planner, appointment scheduler,rolodex, dare book, agenda planner, guest book, and log book.
 53. Thelabel of claim 1, wherein said label assembly is adapted to display aplurality of different indicia.
 54. The label of claim 1, wherein saiddisplay assembly is configured for displaying at least one of a tracknumber, channel number, radio station indicator, volume indicator,temperature, time, and address.
 55. The label of claim 1, furthercomprising a securing layer for securing said label assembly to atactile mechanism.
 56. The label of claim 55, wherein said tactilemechanism comprises one of a switch, button, dial, knob, lever, key,detector, and locator.
 57. The label of claim 1, further comprising astylus adapted for contacting said label, wherein said display assemblydisplays indicia created by said stylus in said display assembly. 58.The label of claim 1, further comprising a securing layer said labelassembly to a gameboard for playing a game.
 59. The label of claim 58,wherein said processor dynamically alters said indicia displayed by saidlabel during said game.
 60. The label of claim 59, wherein said labelfurther comprises display altering means for altering said electronicink to display multiple gameboard representations.
 61. The label ofclaim 1, wherein said display altering means generates multipledifferent gameboard representations during operation of said label. 62.The label of claim 1, further comprising a securing layer for securingsaid label assembly to one or more gamepieces employed in connectionwith a gameboard for playing a game or a game.
 63. The label of claim 1,wherein said storage element is adapted to store digital audioinformation and digital video information.
 64. The label of claim 63,further comprising means for synchronizing the display of indicia onsaid label with said stored digital audio information.
 65. The label ofclaim 1, wherein said display layers comprises a plurality of layershaving electronic ink, each said layer having a different property. 66.The label of claim 65, wherein said layers having different propertiesare arranged to provide one of a three-dimensional display, a colordisplay, and a dynamic display.
 67. The label of claim 1, furthercomprising a transparent electrode sheer connected to said displaylayers.
 68. The label of claim 1, wherein said label is configured asone of a tag, card, and ticket.
 69. The electronic label of claim 1,wherein the electronic ink forms one of a pixel-addressable display, asegment-addressable display, and a combination of both.
 70. Theelectronic label of claim 1, further comprising an on-board power sourcefor providing power for one or more components of the label assembly.71. The electronic label of claim 1, further comprising a securing meansfor securing the label to an item.
 72. The electronic label of claim 1,wherein said information stored in said storage element comprises one ofinstructions for determining the indicia displayed by said displayassembly and pixel or segment addresses corresponding to locations insaid display assembly.
 73. The electronic label of claim 1, wherein saiddisplay assembly to display said indicia in human or machine readableform.
 74. The electronic label of claim 1 further comprisingidentification information corresponding to the label and formed in thelabel when created.
 75. The electronic label of claim 1, wherein saidstorage element is configured to store selected information for displayby said display assembly.
 76. The electronic label of claim 1, furthercomprising an adhesive or mechanical device for securing said labelassembly to the item.
 77. The electronic label of claim 1, wherein saidstorage element is configured for storing a software program forautomatically updating machine readable indicia, and the item is a mediaitem, so that the machine readable indicia during use is operated withmachine indicia reading equipment.
 78. The electronic label of claim 77,wherein said readable machine indicia comprises optical symbologies. 79.The electronic label of claim 1, wherein the display layer comprisesregions of color and regions of non-color.
 80. The electronic label ofclaim 1, further comprising securing means for securing the labelassembly to an item employed to permanently record or represent amonetary or financial transaction.
 81. The electronic label of claim 1,further comprising securing means for securing said label assembly to anitem, wherein said securing means comprises at least one of means forfabricating, weaving, pressing, lacing, sewing, molding, stitching,knitting, joining, gluing, bonding, mechanically fastening, andlaminating the label assembly to the item.
 82. The electronic label ofclaim 1, wherein the item is a monetary instrument, and wherein saidlabel assembly forms the raw stock from which the monetary instrument iscreated.
 83. The electronic label of claim 1, wherein said electronicink is configured to provide a predetermined response to an externalinput signal or to a command from said processor.
 84. The electroniclabel of claim 83, wherein said electronic ink comprises fluorescentink, said fluorescent ink being configured for illuminating in responseto an appropriate excitation energy wavelength from an external source,or in response to said processor output signal.
 85. The electronic labelof claim 83, wherein said electronic ink comprises ultra violet ink,said ultra violet ink being configured for illuminating in response toan appropriate excitation energy wavelength from an external source, orin response to said processor output signal.
 86. The electronic label ofclaim 83, wherein said electronic ink comprises infrared sensitive ink,said infrared sensitive ink being configured for illuminating inresponse to an appropriate excitation energy wavelength from an externalsource, or in response to said processor output signal.
 87. Theelectronic label of claim 1, wherein said display assembly is adapted tocontinue to display said indicia independent of power continuing to besupplied to said label.
 88. The electronic label of claim 1, whereinsaid one or more antenna layers comprise a power antenna for receiving apower signal from a source, and for generating an output power signalfor powering the electronic label.
 89. The electronic label of claim 1,further comprising a securing layer for securing said label assembly toa media item employed for storing or displaying selected information.90. The electronic label of claim 89, wherein said media item comprisesat least one of a electromagnetic, optical, and pulp based storagedevice.
 91. The electronic label of claim 89, wherein said media itemcomprises one of a computer diskette, computer zip drive, computer DVDdisk, magnetic tape, VHS tape, digital recording tape, MP3 type player,MP3 type recording device, digital camera, writable DVD disk, paper,binder, folder, and book.
 92. An electronic label system, comprising:one or more stacked, layered electronic labels suitable for displayinginformation, said label providing a combination comprising one or moredisplay layers including electronic ink comprising a bi-stable,non-volatile imaging material disposed on a support, one or moreactivation grid layers for activating said imaging material, one or moreantenna layers for sending or receiving signals corresponding toprograms, instructions, data or indicia to be displayed by said displayassembly, and a processor layer including one or more processors and astorage element, said storage element storing one of indicia, data,programs and instructions, said processor layer in circuit with saiddisplay layer, said activation layer, and said antenna layer fordetermining intelligently indicia to be displayed by said display layer,for controlling and coordinating operation of said label, and forgenerating output signals for instructing the display layer to displaythe indicia through said imaging material, wherein said display layer,said antenna layer, said activation grid layer, and said processor layerare stacked together to form said stacked electronic label saidcombination being cooperatively operable a) through operation of saidone or more antenna layers, to activate said bi-stable, non-volatileimaging material independent of any power source on said label, b) tocause said imaging material to provide enduring activation thereofindependent of maintenance of said signals, and c) said signalactivated, imaging material providing a display related to the intendedfunction of said label, with said bi-stable, non-volatile imagingmaterial allowing said display to remain visible and stable.
 93. Thelabel system of claim 92, thither comprising an activator module foractivating said label assembly.
 94. The label system of claim 93,wherein said activator module comprises one of a processor, computer,LAN, WAN, computer network, Java box, cellular telephone network, pagernetwork, satellite broadcast network, control and communication system,internet, intranet, GPS system, and radiowave generating system, andintelligent appliance.
 95. The label system of claim 92, furthercomprising an activator module for activating said label assembly,wherein said activator module is adapted to activate said label assemblyindependent of movement of said label assembly.
 96. The label system ofclaim 93, wherein said activator module is configured as a stand alonedevice capable of communication with a network.
 97. The label system ofclaim 93, wherein said activator module is sized and configured as aportable, hand-held device.
 98. The label system of claim 92, furthercomprising an external source for activating said electronic label. 99.The label system of claim 98, wherein said external source comprises oneof a (LIPS system, a cellular phone network, a pager network, and aradiowave transmitter.
 100. A stacked, layered electronic label suitablefor displaying information, said label providing a combinationcomprising a plurality of layers, said plurality of layers including atleast a first layer and a second layer, wherein one of said first andsecond layers includes at least one of an electronic ink comprising abi-stable, non-volatile imaging material disposed on a support, and anactivation grid for activating said imaging material wherein at leastone of said first and second layers includes one or more processors, andat least one of a storage element and a device for sending or receivingsignals corresponding to programs, instructions, data or indicia to bedisplayed by said first layer, said storage element storing one ofindicia, data, programs and instructions, said one or more processorsbeing in circuit with said first layer for determining intelligentlyindicia to be displayed, for controlling and coordinating operation ofsaid label, and for generating output signals for instructing the firstlayer to display the indicia through said imaging material, wherein saidfirst layer and said second layer are stacked together to form saidstacked electronic label, said combination being cooperatively operablea) through operation of said device for sending or receiving signals toactivate said bi-stable, non-volatile imaging material independent ofany power source on said label, b) to cause said imaging material toprovide enduring activation thereof independent of maintenance of saidsignals, and c) said signal activated, imaging material providing adisplay related to the intended function of said label, with saidbi-stable, non-volatile imaging material allowing said display to remainvisible and stable.
 101. The electronic label of claim 100, wherein saidplurality of layers is adapted to continue to display said indiciaindependent of power continuing to be supplied to said label.
 102. Theelectronic label of claim 100, wherein one said of said first and secondlayers further comprises a power antenna for receiving a power signalfrom a source, and for generating an output power signal for poweringthe electronic label.
 103. The electronic label of claim 100, whereinsaid plurality of era further comprises a securing layer for securingsaid label assembly to a media item employed for storing or displayingselected information.
 104. The electronic label of claim 100, whereinsaid label is flexible and resilient.
 105. The electronic label of claim100, wherein the electronic ink comprises one of a gyricon material, acholesteric material, and a zenithal material.